A range of issues and conditions can cause jaw pain. However, a common cause of jaw pain is temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), which can in turn be caused by a wide variety of factors, including genetics or a tendency to clench or grind the teeth.
Chiropractic care can be a natural way to alleviate jaw pain as it focuses on restoring proper alignment of the jaw and spine and relaxation of the jaw muscles. It helps reduce jaw tension and provides relief from jaw joint locking or clicking, jaw swelling, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, jaw tenderness and headaches. The first step towards recovery from TMJ jaw pain through chiropractic treatment is an initial consultation to determine your individual needs. Our team will then work closely with you to develop a tailored jaw pain treatment plan. Factors in the spine play into alignment of what is called the cervical curve. If this curve is out of alignment, it can affect your jaw muscles and eventually begin to cause wear and tear and pain. By including treatment of the curvature of the neck, chiropractic treatment is able to achieve results in reducing TMJ jaw pain. We use specialised chiropractic techniques including joint mobilisation and manipulation, soft tissue massage and heat therapy. We may also provide exercises that have the aim of providing long-term relief from jaw pain.
If left untreated, TMJ jaw pain can become chronic and interfere with daily life. Fortunately, chiropractic care can be a very effective treatment for TMJ symptoms. In addition to physical adjustments, chiropractors may also recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding hard or chewy foods that could aggravate TMJ symptoms or using a night guard while sleeping if you grind your teeth at night. These lifestyle modifications combined with regular chiropractic treatments can help alleviate TMJ jaw pain symptoms over time.
TMJ is just one potential cause of jaw pain. Many other factors can come into play. At The Backstory, we provide a thorough assessment before proceeding with any treatments or recommendations. To take the first step towards freedom from that annoying and debilitating jaw pain, make a booking online now.
